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Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Rep. Jackson Introduce Bill to Support Texas Cattle Ranchers Recover from Natural Disasters

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Sens. Cruz, Cornyn, Rep. Jackson Introduce Bill to Support Texas Cattle Ranchers Recover from Natural Disasters
 Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today introduced the Livestock Indemnity Program Enhancement Act, which helps ensure Texas cattle ranchers impacted by natural disasters have access to resources they need to recover. Image for illustration purposes
 Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today introduced the Livestock Indemnity Program Enhancement Act, which helps ensure Texas cattle ranchers impacted by natural disasters have access to resources they need to recover. Image for illustration purposes

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today introduced the Livestock Indemnity Program Enhancement Act, which helps ensure Texas cattle ranchers impacted by natural disasters have access to resources they need to recover.

Sen. Cruz said, “The Texas Panhandle is a critical component of our state’s agricultural economy. Last year I visited areas devastated by the wildfires, and I made a commitment to the Texans affected by that disaster to secure the disaster relief they told me they needed. The Livestock Indemnity Program ensures that losses from unborn calves are included into disaster relief calculations, which will help our cattle ranchers recover and rebuild. I’m grateful to Representative Jackson for championing this measure in the House Agriculture budget bill, and I urge my colleagues to move quickly to get this measure to the President’s desk.”

Senator John Cornyn

Sen. Cornyn said, “As a leading producer of our nation’s food and fiber, Texas must have the necessary resources to recover from the devastating impact of natural disasters and wildfires, including the loss of thousands of beef cattle in the Panhandle last year. This bill would provide additional support to livestock owners who lose their herds due to extreme and unpredictable weather events, and I urge my colleagues to support it.”

Companion legislation is being led in the House by Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Texas-13).

Rep. Jackson said, “The devastating wildfires that tore through our region claimed over 12,000 cattle, but that figure doesn’t account for the countless unborn calves also lost. This legislation will establish vital compensation for unborn livestock losses, providing Texas ranchers the targeted financial support they urgently need to rebuild their operations and preserve our cattle industry’s legacy following these devastating wildfires. I was proud to fight for this critical enhancement of the livestock safety net in the House Agriculture Committee Budget Reconciliation text earlier this week, and I urge my Senate colleagues to swiftly send this provision to the President’s desk.”

This bill is supported by the Texas Farm Bureau. 

Russell Boening, President of Texas Farm Bureau said, “As Texas farmers and ranchers face unpredictable natural disasters and are still recovering from 2024 wildfires, providing flexibility within the USDA Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) would provide much needed certainty for producers. We thank Sen. Ted Cruz and Congressman Ronny Jackson for introducing the ‘Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) Enhancement Act’ to compensate ranchers who lost unborn calves due the wildfires. Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) appreciates leaders like Sen. Cruz and Congressman Jackson who recognize challenges and act on solutions to help our hardworking cattlemen and women during times of need.”

BACKGROUND

This bill would require the United States Department of Agriculture to establish an additional payment rate through the Livestock Indemnity Program for excessive unborn livestock death losses due to gestating livestock losses. Last year, wildfires in the Texas Panhandle resulted in over 12,000 cattle deaths and $27 million in cattle losses, destroying the livelihoods of hundreds of ranchers and livestock producers in Texas.

Read the bill text here.

Kinder Foundation Gives $150M to Launch New Kinder Children’s Cancer Center

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Kinder Foundation Gives $150M to Launch New Kinder Children’s Cancer Center
Dr. Fred Farías III is a member of the Board of Visitors of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Peter Pisters, President of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Courtesy photo
Dr. Fred Farías III is a member of the Board of Visitors of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Peter Pisters, President of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Courtesy photo

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May 14, 2025 – The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children’s Hospital have announced a $150 million gift from the Kinder Foundation to establish the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center — a pioneering initiative with a singular goal: to end childhood cancer.

One of the largest philanthropic contributions to a U.S. pediatric hospital, the gift will support the creation of the nation’s most comprehensive center dedicated solely to childhood cancer. The new facility will be constructed in the Texas Medical Center, located on the 6700 block of Main Street in Houston, and is expected to open in early 2026.

“Our philanthropic focus is on transformational efforts in Houston, and this initiative does just that,” said Rich Kinder, chairman of Kinder Foundation. “This collaboration is a rare and powerful moment — a chance to reshape the future of pediatric cancer care. We’re proud to help create a world-class center that brings hope to families everywhere.”

Dr. Debra Sukin. Courtesy photo

The gift launches a multi-year campaign to fund construction, research, and clinical care, solidifying a groundbreaking partnership between two of the country’s leading healthcare institutions. The new center will house inpatient units, outpatient care, and cutting-edge research labs, all designed specifically with children and families in mind.

“This historic gift reflects the vision and future impact of our collaboration with MD Anderson,” said Dr. Debra Sukin, CEO of Texas Children’s Hospital. “Together, we will accelerate research, expand access, and lead the global fight against pediatric cancer.”

A key feature of the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center is the combination of Texas Children’s expertise in pediatric care with MD Anderson’s strength in cancer research and clinical trials. This partnership will dramatically expand access to life-saving trials and new treatments. The center also aims to speed drug development and improve long-term survivorship for children with cancer.

Dr. Peter WT Pisters. Courtesy photo

Patient care will be centered at Texas Children’s Hospital, while MD Anderson will continue to provide radiation oncology services. The center will also offer Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) programs at both institutions. It will be governed jointly, with leadership chosen through an international search.

Dr. Peter WT Pisters, president of MD Anderson, added, “This center will be a global destination for childhood cancer care. We’re proud to unite with Texas Children’s to create something truly unprecedented in pediatric oncology.”

The announcement was made at a celebration at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, attended by hospital leaders, the Kinders, and key supporters. As both institutions join forces, the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center promises to bring healing, innovation, and lasting change to children and families facing cancer — in Houston and beyond.

Supreme Court Reviews Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship

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Supreme Court Reviews Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship
The Supreme Court is expected to issue a decision by the end of June 2025. While the justices expressed skepticism about the executive order’s constitutional foundation, the ruling may focus more narrowly on the legal authority of courts to impose nationwide injunctions. SCOTUS Images: Supremecourt.gov. Kids and background for illustration purposes
The Supreme Court is expected to issue a decision by the end of June 2025. While the justices expressed skepticism about the executive order’s constitutional foundation, the ruling may focus more narrowly on the legal authority of courts to impose nationwide injunctions. SCOTUS Images: Supremecourt.gov. Kids and background for illustration purposes

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On May 15, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Trump v. CASA, a case examining the legality of Executive Order 14160, issued by President Donald Trump. The order seeks to end birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants or individuals holding temporary visas. This case has drawn national attention for its potential impact on constitutional interpretation and immigration policy.

D. John Sauer is the Solicitor General of the United States, appointed by President Donald Trump and confirmed by the Senate on April 4, 2025. In his role, Sauer represents the federal government in cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. In the case of Trump v. CASA, he is advocating on behalf of the Trump administration, defending Executive Order 14160, which seeks to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants or those on temporary visas.  Image Official Portrait from Wikipedia 

The justices began by focusing on the authority of lower federal courts to issue nationwide injunctions. Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued that such sweeping measures exceed judicial limits and interfere with the separation of powers. Justice Samuel Alito raised concerns about the confusion that could result from different courts issuing conflicting decisions on such a fundamental matter.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh pressed for clarity on the executive order’s practical implications. He posed questions about how hospitals and state officials would determine a newborn’s citizenship status under the proposed changes. Sauer acknowledged that federal agencies would have to establish procedures, but he did not provide specifics, revealing uncertainty about how the policy would be implemented.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson emphasized the legal and human consequences of the order. She warned that it could create a system where individuals must take legal action to assert their rights—a dynamic she described as a “catch-me-if-you-can” environment. Jackson pointed to the potential burden this would place on families and the judiciary.

Central to the legal debate was the 1898 Supreme Court case United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which affirmed that the 14th Amendment grants citizenship to nearly all individuals born in the United States, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. This historical precedent formed a key argument against the constitutionality of Executive Order 14160.

The Supreme Court is expected to issue a decision by the end of June 2025. While the justices expressed skepticism about the executive order’s constitutional foundation, the ruling may focus more narrowly on the legal authority of courts to impose nationwide injunctions. The outcome will have broad implications for the interpretation of birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment and the balance of power among the branches of government.

For a more in-depth understanding, you can watch the full oral arguments here:

Courtesy video

IDEA Edinburg Senior Announces West Point Commitment

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IDEA Edinburg Senior Announces West Point Commitment
IDEA Edinburg Senior, Gael Gama, announced his commitment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, marking the first-ever acceptance to West Point in the school’s history. Image courtesy of IDEA Public Schools
IDEA Edinburg Senior, Gael Gama, announced his commitment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, marking the first-ever acceptance to West Point in the school’s history. Image courtesy of IDEA Public Schools

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IDEA Edinburg Senior, Gael Gama, announced his commitment to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, marking the first-ever acceptance to West Point in the school’s history.  

Gael’s journey has been marked by academic excellence, leadership, and resilience. For the past four years, he has spent his summers attending rigorous leadership and military training programs. His persistence has paid off, and today, he celebrated with his classmates as he officially announced his next chapter. He is among a small group of students nationwide selected to join West Point, where he plans to study Engineering. 

During College Signing Day happening over a three-day span, more than 1,700 IDEA seniors will announce for the first time, to their friends, family and community, the college they plan to attend this fall. College Signing Day is the culmination of years of hard work and marks a momentous occasion in each IDEA student’s academic journey. Students from this year’s graduating classes across the district accepted spots at Boston University, Colgate University, Brown University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Texas at Austin, John Hopkins University, Stanford University, Vanderbilt University, Yale University and more. Out of the entire Rio Grande Valley 2025 class, 61% received acceptances into selective and highly selective different colleges and universities across the U.S. and beyond. 

Information source: IDEA Public Schools 

Edinburg to Launch Paid Internship Program Connecting UTRGV Students With Local Banks, May 16th

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Edinburg to Launch Paid Internship Program Connecting UTRGV Students With Local Banks, May 16th
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC), in partnership with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and the City of Edinburg 2040 Initiative, will officially launch Bank on INT!, a paid internship program that bridges higher education and the financial industry. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony will take place Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. in the Edinburg City Council Chambers to commemorate the launch. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC), in partnership with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and the City of Edinburg 2040 Initiative, will officially launch Bank on INT!, a paid internship program that bridges higher education and the financial industry. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony will take place Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. in the Edinburg City Council Chambers to commemorate the launch. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes

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EDINBURG, Texas – The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC), in partnership with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and the City of Edinburg 2040 Initiative, will officially launch Bank on INT!, a paid internship program that bridges higher education and the financial industry. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony will take place Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. in the Edinburg City Council Chambers to commemorate the launch.

Bank on INT! will provide undergraduate business students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at regional banks, including Freedom Bank, Rio Bank, Texas National Bank, Lone Star National Bank, and Greater State Bank. The inaugural cohort will support eight students, each earning a highly competitive rate during the 10-week summer program running from June 9 to August 22, 2025, aligning with UTRGV’s Summer III semester.

Courtesy image

The program is designed to give students meaningful exposure to banking careers while supporting long-term workforce development goals in the region.

“This internship program is an investment in our students and our community’s future,” said Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. “Through partnerships like this, we are equipping young professionals with the tools they need to succeed while strengthening the financial sector and keeping talent here in the Valley. Bank on INT! is a perfect example of the vision behind our Edinburg 2040 initiative in action.”

The initiative offers real-world learning opportunities for juniors and seniors majoring in business or related fields. Interns will be placed at participating banks across the Valley, where they will engage in meaningful projects, receive mentorship, and build critical career skills.

“Bank on INT! supports the economic growth of South Texas by developing a talent pipeline that benefits both students and employers,” said Raudel Garza, EEDC Executive Director. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to building a workforce that is competitive, capable, and connected to the opportunities right here at home.”

The MOU signing ceremony formalizes the shared commitment among partners and lays the groundwork for an innovative internship program that aligns with Edinburg’s strategic vision for education, economic vitality, and talent retention. While the agreement is non-binding, it symbolizes strong and lasting cooperation among key stakeholders.

There is no cost to the City or EEDC for the internships, since each partner bank is directly funding the student positions. The City of Edinburg 2040 Initiative and EEDC continue to drive efforts that align educational resources with career pathways to build a brighter, more resilient future for the region.

$30,000 Reward for Known Fugitive Trevor McEuen

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$30,000 Reward for Known Fugitive Trevor McEuen
In addition to the state reward, Kaufman County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $10,000 and Kaufman County Sheriff's Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000, bringing the total reward amount up to $30,000. Photo: Texas DPS.
In addition to the state reward, Kaufman County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $10,000 and Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000, bringing the total reward amount up to $30,000. Photo: Texas DPS.

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Office of the Governor’s Public Safety Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Trevor McEuen, who failed to appear for his court date while out on bond for capital murder. The Texas Department of Public Safety has added the suspect to their 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List.

“​Trevor McEuen is exactly why Texas must fix its broken and deadly bail system,” said Governor Abbott. “A violent criminal like McEuen charged with capital murder should never be released on our streets. That’s why I made bail reform an emergency item that must pass this legislative session. I urge all Texans with information on McEuen to call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online to help law enforcement apprehend this heinous criminal. Working together, we will bring fugitives like Trevor McEuen to justice.”

Trevor McEuen was charged with capital murder, four counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and murder after he shot 35-year-old Aaron Martinez in 2023. On May 5, 2025, McEuen failed to appear for his scheduled court date. That morning, McEuen also removed his court-ordered ankle monitor and left his residence.

In addition to the state reward, Kaufman County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $10,000 and Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000, bringing the total reward amount up to $30,000.

To be eligible for cash reward, tipsters must provide information to authorities using one of the following methods:

  • Call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477)
  • Submit a tip online through the Texas Department of Public Safety

Callers’ anonymity is guaranteed by law regardless of how tips are submitted, and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name. Fugitives should be considered armed and dangerous. Texans should never try to apprehend a fugitive.

Mission Real Estate Agent Indicted for Fraud Scheme

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Mission Real Estate Agent Indicted for Fraud Scheme
The charges allege, beginning in June 2021, Zamora orchestrated a real estate fraud scheme by selling multiple homes without the homeowners’ authorization. He allegedly forged signatures on documents and transferred property titles to his business. Image for illustration purposes
The charges allege, beginning in June 2021, Zamora orchestrated a real estate fraud scheme by selling multiple homes without the homeowners’ authorization. He allegedly forged signatures on documents and transferred property titles to his business. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

McALLEN, Texas – A 45-year-old Mission man has made an appearance in McAllen federal court on wire fraud charges. 

According to the four-count indictment, Sergio Efrain Zamora Jr. sold multiple homes by forging signatures on the documents and transferring titles to his business.

The charges allege, beginning in June 2021, Zamora orchestrated a real estate fraud scheme by selling multiple homes without the homeowners’ authorization. He allegedly forged signatures on documents and transferred property titles to his business.

The victims-some of whom were his own family and friends-were unaware their homes were being sold, according to the charges. Zamora allegedly created fraudulent documents, including warranty deeds and contracts of sale, to make the transactions appear legitimate.

According to the indictment, he forged paperwork as part of the scheme. He allegedly profited illegally by using the proceeds to pay off debts and, in some cases, by receiving funds directly from the fraudulent closings.

The charges allege the scheme caused a total loss of $655,000 to the victims and the title company.

If convicted, Zamora faces up to 20 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

Updated May 14, 2025

CBP Officers Seize More Than $1.7 Million In Meth at Rio Grande City Port of Entry

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CBP Officers Seize More Than $1.7 Million In Meth at Rio Grande City Port of Entry
Packages containing 191 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Rio Grande City Port of Entry. USCBP image
Packages containing 191 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Rio Grande City Port of Entry. USCBP image

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RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to the Rio Grande City Port of Entry seized alleged methamphetamine that totaled more than $1.7 million in street value.

“Our frontline CBP officers utilized an effective combination of technology and inspections experience to take down this significant load of methamphetamine in a passenger vehicle,” said Port Director Rogelio Olivares, Rio Grande City Port of Entry. “This seizure underscores the reality of the drug threat and the importance of upholding our priority border security mission.”

 The seizure occurred on May 13 at the Rio Grande City International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 26-year-old female Mexican citizen driving a 2016 Kia Sorrento for secondary inspection. Following a canine and nonintrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered 83 packages containing a total of 191.40 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the vehicle.

The narcotics have a street value of $1,760,015.

CBP seized the narcotics and the vehicle and turned them over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. DEA special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.  

STC Graduate Follows Her Mother’s Legacy

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STC Graduate Follows Her Mother’s Legacy
South Texas College (STC) has played a transformative role for student Kimberly Mora, an Education major who will be graduating this spring with an Associate of Arts in Teaching Secondary Education. STC image
South Texas College (STC) has played a transformative role for student Kimberly Mora, an Education major who will be graduating this spring with an Associate of Arts in Teaching Secondary Education. STC image

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By Veronica Salinas

South Texas College (STC) has played a transformative role for student Kimberly Mora, who graduated last Saturday from the Education Department with an Associate of Arts in Teaching.

“STC has been part of my journey and will always have a special place in my heart,” she said. “It gave me the support and opportunity to grow into the person I am today. I am so excited to be graduating and reaching this important milestone. It is a moment I have worked hard for and will cherish.”

Her passion for teaching was sparked at a young age, inspired by her mother, a retired elementary school teacher who would travel to poverty-stricken cities in Mexico to teach underserved children. 

“My mother dedicated her life to teaching in some of the poorest and most underserved areas of Mexico,” Kimberly said. “Growing up, I watched her give so much of herself to ensure her students had a chance at a better future, despite limited resources. Her passion and resilience inspired me deeply and from a young age, I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps.”

Now, Mora is well on her way. Her dream is to become an Art teacher, a path fueled by her love for creativity and imagination.

“If I had to pick one subject to teach, it would be art. I am a very creative person, and I like to see students using their creativity and imagination to create whatever they desire,” she said.

At STC, Mora said she found more than just academic opportunity, she also discovered her voice. Once shy and reserved, she pushed herself to get involved in campus life by joining the Student Leadership Academy and the Student Government Association (SGA), where she currently serves as a senator. These programs transformed her confidence and communication skills.

“Mr. Tyrone Marshall, coordinator for Student Activities and Events, made the biggest impact on me during my time at STC,” Mora said. “Mr. Marshall inspired me to go into Student Leadership and from there, I got into student government. I used to be bad at communicating and because of his support and the support of SGA, I am able to speak publicly without fear.”

Kimberly’s experience outside the classroom has also been instrumental. As a substitute teacher for Donna Independent School District, she is gaining firsthand experience that deepens her desire to contribute meaningfully to education.

STC celebrates students like Mora, leaders who carry the torch of inspiration, service and community impact into the future.

For more information on STC’s Education programs visit: https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/education/.

Applications For Hotel Occupancy Tax Funding Open

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Applications For Hotel Occupancy Tax Funding Open
Local non-profit entities invited to apply for Hote/ Occupancy Tax funding to promote tourism in Brownsville. Image courtesy of The City of Brownsville
Local non-profit entities invited to apply for Hote/ Occupancy Tax funding to promote tourism in Brownsville. Image courtesy of The City of Brownsville

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BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville’s Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) and Office of Space Commerce is now accepting applications from local non-profit organizations in need of financial support to promote tourism in Brownsville. This is part of the CVB’s annual collaboration with local organizations to market and promote Brownsville as a visitor’s destination.

In accordance with the Texas State Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds, every dollar awarded to an organization under this program must directly enhance and promote tourism and the convention and hotel industry within the City. Recipients of these funds must have a project that falls under one of the nine statutorily provided categories for expenditures.

These categories include:
Funding the establishment, improvement, or maintenance of a convention center or visitor information center.
Paying the administrative costs for facilitating convention registration.
Paying for advertising, solicitations, and promotions that attract tourists and convention delegates to the City or its vicinity.
Expenditures that promote the arts.
Funding historical restoration or preservation programs.
Funding certain expenses, including promotional expenses, directly related to a sporting event within counties with a population of under 1 million.
Funding the enhancement or upgrading of existing sports facilities or sports fields for certain municipalities.
Funding transportation systems for tourists.
Signage directing tourists to sights and attractions that are visited frequently by hotel guests in the municipality.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau will host two Hotel Occupancy Tax Educational Workshops. Those interested in applying for HOT Funds are encouraged to attend. The workshops are scheduled as follows:

Monday, June 9, 2025
CMD/CVB Complex
1312 E. Adams St. Brownsville
9:00AM – 11:00AM
2:00PM – 4:00PM|
The deadline to apply for HOT Funds is Sunday, June 22, 2025.

For more information on the workshops, please contact the Brownsville Convention and Visitor’s Bureau at visitbtx@brownsvilletx.gov or at (956) 564-3721. Interested parties may access the HOT Funds application at: https://visitbtx.com/hotfundsrequests/

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